People love their protein powders, and they'll defend the benefits of these supplements until they're blue in the face. I get it, because I've been there. Years ago I drank a banana, blueberry and a whey protein powder blend smoothie every day. I thought I was being really healthy, because after all, the powder promised ripped abs, sleek muscles, more energy and better athletic performance.

Sounded good to me. I just drink this protein shake every day, and I’ll be a healthy, hot super-yogini, right?

Wrong! Protein powders are highly processed and are often heated to the point that the protein is denatured, which makes it nearly impossible for the body to recognize and use. The result is higher levels of acidity and toxicity in the body, which can lead to plenty of unwanted illnesses and diseases.

So here we are again, consuming something we think is supposed to be healthy for us and make us look and feel our best, and yet, it could be making us sick. Ugh. Protein powders are often filled with preservatives, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), allergens like dairy (whey protein isolate) and soy, and other synthetic toxins like aspartame, saccharin, and artificial flavors.

In case all that wasn’t enough to get your attention, since protein powders are considered a supplement, they’re not even regulated by the FDA. In fact, Consumer Reports conducted an eye-opening study a few years ago, showing that several protein powders on the market contain dangerous levels of toxic heavy metals — specifically arsenic, cadmium and lead. Not good.

The long of the short here is that there are way too many scary risks, which far supersede the promised health claims of protein powders. The good news is you don’t have to rely on these supplements, because you can get all the protein you need from eating real whole foods!

My go-to plant protein of choice is hemp seeds, which are in my mind the cleanest complete protein available on the market today. Hemp seeds are considered a whole food, so you don't have to worry about any scary manufacturing nightmares, nasty preservatives, artificial flavors or toxins. They're an amazing source of source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, helping to keep you fueled, regular, happy and healthy.

For the protein gram counters out there, just three tablespoons of hemp seeds will load you up with 14 grams of protein! If you know someone using a questionable protein powder, please share this post. And now, I want to hear from you. Do you use protein powder? Have I convinced you to try an alternative? I want to know!